Symptom: Difficulty in swallowing that can lead to aspiration and/or inadequate nutrition
Dysphagia can occur even early in the disease course; early recognition and treatment can promote comfort, safety, and optimal nutritional status. Choking or coughing while drinking thin liquids is often the first sign of dysphagia.
Treatment
- Referral to S/LP for assessment; exercise program; modified diet; non-oral feeding strategies, if needed
Psychosocial Implication
- Fear of loss of control, choking
- Social isolation
- Mealtime fatigue
- Loss of pleasurable mealtimes
- Loss of ability to eat orally